Battle of Ichogil Bund


The Battle of Ichogil Bund was a skirmish fought from 22 September to 23 September 1965 as part of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 in which approximately two Pakistani companies attempted to re-occupy the eastern bund of the Ichhogil Canal. It resulted in an Indian victory, and the contested section of the canal was re-captured by the 9th Battalion Madras Regiment, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel B.K. Satyan.
The battle was notable for being fought after the cease-fire had been signed on September 22. Fighting began around midnight and lasted for about 2 and a half hours. Accounts differ: between 27 and 49 Indian soldiers died. Pakistani casualties included 48 dead and 11 captured.
The Ichogil Canal was constructed by the Pakistanis in the 1950's partly as a defensive obstacle to prevent an invasion of Lahore. At wide and deep, it presents a serious obstacle for military forces. Much of the battle was fought from across the canal, with tanks providing fire support to a ground team which had crossed the canal.